Most Effective SD 9mm round?

[DerbyDale]

All choices would be from modern quality defensive loads like Federal HST, Speer Gold Dot, Winchester Ranger, Remington Golden Sabers, etc. (NO old outdated designs like Hydra-Shok) From the choices below, which is the most effective 9mm defensive load? Also, Bonded or not?

It is my understanding bigger heavier is more desirable than a smaller and lighter when it comes to SD loads. This is why a .45 is better than a 9mm, and a 9mm is better than a 380 or a .22

Right now I'm looking at Federal 135grain Bonded +P load and/or the Federal HST 147grain load.

I was at the range last weekend (and it was VERY Windy). I shot some Winchester Ranger 127grain +P+ SXTs. Along with some Remington Golden Saber 147grain loads. I found that in my 3" XD sub-compact the Rangers +P+ loads had way too much recoil/snap and was exceedingly loud. The 147grain Golden Sabers were much easier to control, quieter and seemed to be more accurate in that very windy day.

This got me to thinking about what is best of these quality SD loads, and what I should be carrying. The Federal HST rounds are a little cheaper, so I can practice more with them. But which ones??? 147grain or 135grain +P??? Given the choice, I don't see why anyone would opt for a smaller/lighter bullet... Maybe I'm missing something.

 

[Moonclip]

Of those listed I like the 115+P format but this is one of those topics that invites flame wars. I'd maybe like the heavier weights in a long barreled 9mm like a carbine.

 

[DerbyDale]

I'm deffenatily not trying to start a flame war.

I have a pretty good understanding of SD loads and which are good picks in general. But I also know that I don't know everything, and I'm looking to learn more. My problems is figuring out the best bullet weight and pressure from the top choices available.

 

[NWdude83]

Speer GoldDot HP 147gr

 

[Spyvie]

I don't really know what I'm talking about, having never had to actually use a handgun in self defense, but I keep reading good things about the Ranger SXT 127GR +P+ that a gun store near me sells for $21.95 a box o fiddy.

I don't think I've ever seen 147GR +P

 

[jeff-10]

Don't know if it is the most effective but I now personally stock up on the 124gr Remington Golden Sabre.

 

[jaydubya]

124 gr Speer Gold Dots.
Cordially, Jack

 

[Moonclip]

I think CorBon did or does make a plus P 147gr load. Those that like the standard 147gr, don't you think the low velocities and low expansion are a negative or the very deep penetration appeals to you? The somewhat low penetration of the 115 +P+ does turn me off some to be honest. I usually load up with 115gr+P Rem standard jhp's.

Don't some autos have issues with the low slide velocities the 147's can produce? I actually use 147gr in a Ruger 9mm REVOLVER because it shoots rather low with 115gr ammo and it's fixed sights.

I didn't mean to imply anyone wanted to start a flame war, it's just one of those topics like 10mm or Glock that people tend to get woked up and be very opinionated on.

I think some of the middle weight +P's like the gold dot might be a good compromise I may need to look in to. I think NYPD uses it. I fired some in the dark once and was impressed of the low flash signature onn a +P load also.

 

[Robo_Railer]

Ditto on the 147 grain Gold Dots.

I just checked Speer's site, and all their 9mm stuff is standard pressure except for one variety of 124 grain (#23167), and their 124 gr. Short Barrel stuff (#23611). Looks like they only have about five kinds of +P in the whole line, and no +P+.

And they happily invited the Firearms Tactical guys out to do some test shots.

 

[NWdude83]

I am selling a 20rd box of 124gr +P Speer GoldDot HPs. $15 plus s/h

 

[DerbyDale]

I don't think I've ever seen 147GR +P

I've never seen them before either. I just ran across them on Federals Website (or I got there from Federals Website) while doing some research. They have a Federal part number of P9HST4, but I'm having a hard time finding them.

 

[orionengnr]

Currently using Winchester Ranger 127 +p+ in my carry 9mm, but am exploring the CorBon DPX 115 all-copper round...

 

[NGIB]

I use 124gr Gold Dots from Georgia-Arms as they're economical. As I've never shot anybody, and hope I never will, all I can say is I hope it's an effective round.

What I do have control over in terms of SD is to practice a lot so I can do my part as shot placement is paramount - period...

 

[DerbyDale]

Thanks to all you have replied and/or voted so far.

For those who selected the smaller and lighter 115-127grain bullets, may I ask why?? (assuming your pistol will function well with the 147grain option)

It is my understanding bigger heavier is more desirable than a smaller and lighter when it comes to SD bullets. This is why a .45 is better than a 9mm, and a 9mm is better than a 380 or a .22. Given the choice, I don't see why anyone would opt for a smaller/lighter bullet, when you have the option of lager and heaver rounds. Especially considering the heaver rounds are produced in +P pressures as well (Federal HST P9HST4), if high pressure was the factor.

glarp.atk.com/2007/2007_Catalogs/FederalLE.pdf

Maybe I'm missing something.

 

[Cowboy2]

In my mind, a .45 beats a 9mm because it makes a significantly larger hole. Same with .380 over .22. The weight advantage seems secondary when the size difference is so large.